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Arboricultural Association “ARB Approved Contractor” Standard for Contractors of ‘fewer than employees’ An achievable standard ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page of 50 The ArbAC scheme sets a standard that is achievable by all good tree work contractors Standards The Standards are broken down into four modules as follows: Module 1: Worksite Safety Inspection Module 2: Work Quality Inspections and Arboricultural Knowledge Module 3: Customer Care and Office Procedures etc Module 4: Health & Safety Management and Workplace Inspection etc The content of each module may vary according to the size of the business: This is the Standard for larger businesses, i.e more than people, which contains more criteria than the Standard for small businesses Some elements are specific to the largest businesses only THIS IS THE STANDARD FOR SMALL BUSINESSES Is this the right standard for your size of business? BUSINESS SIZE: Business size is determined by the number of people who work in your business, including yourself (the employer) Businesses are classed as either: (i) “fewer than employees”, , i.e up to people in the business (see this standard) or (ii) “5 or more employees” +, i.e more than people in the business (see separate standard) In working out your business size you need to add up the number of people working in the business, full time and part time, including: • • • • • Yourself / ‘the employer’ employed arborists / ground staff etc self-employed labour-only arborists / ground staff etc employed or self-employed administrators anyone else who is part of your business, e.g mechanic, sawmill operator and timber truck driver (Do not include people to whom you subcontract work such as other arboricultural businesses, i.e bona fide sub-contractors.) Contents: ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page of 50 Section Module 1.0 – Worksite Safety Inspection 1.1 On Site Operation 1.1.1 Paperwork 1.1.2 Information and guidance 1.1.3 On site personnel 1.1.4 PPE 1.1.5 First Aid 1.1.6 Fire fighting 1.1.7 Tools and equipment 1.1.8 Organisation / welfare 1.1.9 MEWPs 1.1.10 Climbing 1.1.11 Rigging 1.1.12 Ground based operations 1.1.13 Vehicles Module 2.0 – Work Quality Inspections & Arb Knowledge 2.1 Completed Works 2.1.1 Tree planting 2.1.2 Crown lifting 2.1.3 Crown reduction 2.1.4 Crown thinning 2.1.5 Deadwood 2.1.6 Pollarding 2.2 Arboricultural Technical Knowledge (Manager/s) 2.2.1 Arb technical knowledge/competence 2.2.2 Supporting factors & experience 2.2.3 CPD (Continuing Professional Development) 2.2.4 CPD analysis 2.3 Reference Material 2.3.1 Standards ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 5 6 6 6 7 8 8 9 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 13 13 2.3.2 Guides 2.3.3 Books 2.3.4 ‘Arb Mags’ etc 13 13 13 Module 3.0 – Customer Care and Office Procedures etc 3.1 Customer Care and Office Systems 14 3.1.1 Enquiries recording 3.1.2 Appointment system 3.1.3 Quotations / tree work specifications 3.1.4 Contract acceptance 3.1.5 Work programming 3.1.6 Invoicing 3.1.7 Business stationery 3.1.8 Terms and conditions 3.1.9 Debt collection 3.1.10 Complaints procedure 3.1.11 Customer satisfaction 3.1.12 Office set up / general 3.2 Insurances 3.2.1 Employers Liability 3.2.2 Public Liability 3.2.3 Professional Indemnity 3.2.4 Motor Vehicle 3.3 Licences 3.3.1 Waste Carriers 3.3.2 Waste Transfer – if applicable 3.3.3 Operators Licence – if applicable 3.3.4 Driving Licences 3.4 Wildlife and Ecology 3.4.1 Wildlife and Ecology Policy 3.5 Biosecurity 3.5.1 Biosecurity Policy 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 17 17 Page of 50 Section Module 1.0 – Worksite Safety Inspection 1.1 On Site Operation Section Module 4.0 – Health & Safety Management and Workplace Inspection 4.1 Health and Safety Management (as relevant to contractor size, client sectors serviced and operational complexity) 4.1.1 H & S competent person 4.1.2 H & S Poster 4.1.3 Fire Procedures/signs 4.1.4 Employee H&S consultation 4.1.5 H & S Policy 4.1.6 H & S Arrangements (a-m) 4.1.6a Risk assessment 4.1.6b CoSHH (inc Asbestos) 4.1.6c Working at Height 4.1.6d Manual Handling Operations 4.1.6e First Aid 4.1.6f RIDDOR / Accident & Incident Management 4.1.6g PPE 4.1.6h Provision and Use of Work Equipment 4.1.6i Lifting Equipment and Lifting Operations 4.1.6j Fire Safety Order / DSEAR 4.1.6k Vibration 4.1.6l Noise 4.1.6m Welfare Arrangements 4.1.7 Sub-contractors/consultants 4.1.8 H & S monitoring 4.1.9 Quality monitoring ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 5 Page 18 18 2.3.2 Guides 2.3.3 Books 2.3.4 ‘Arb Mags’ etc 4.3 Training and Competence 4.3.1 Training and information 4.3.2 Qualifications and experience 4.3.3 Training records 4.3.4 Training needs assessment 4.4 Environmental 18 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 21 21 22 22 22 23 23 23 23 4.4.1 Environmental Policy 4.5 Stores / Workshop 4.5.1 Safe and secure 4.5.2 Signage 4.5.3 Illumination/electric supply 4.5.4 Oil/fuel storage 4.5.5 Spill control 4.5.6 First aid kit 4.5.7 Fire risk assessment / DSEAR assessment 4.5.8 Staff welfare 4.5.9 Pesticide/herbicide storage 4.5.10 CoSHH information 4.5.11 Equipment guards/signs 4.5.12 Equipment servicing/testing 4.5.13 Biosecurity kit 4.6 Yard 4.6.1 Vehicle/pedestrians movements 4.6.2 Timber storage 4.6.3 Woodchip storage APPENDIX 1.0 – Accident Management and Recording APPENDIX 2.0 – Useful references, H&S guides etc APPENDIX 3.0 – Assessment / Reassessment Outcomes 13 13 13 24 24 24 24 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 27 27 27 27 28 29-31 32-33 Page of 50 Section Module 1.0 – Worksite Safety Inspection 1.1 On Site Operation Page 4.1.10 H & S review/revision 4.2 Health and Safety Communications and Controls 23 24 2.3.2 Guides 2.3.3 Books 2.3.4 ‘Arb Mags’ etc 13 13 13 (applicable only to larger contractors ‘C & D.’) 4.2.1 Communication lines 4.2.2 Command and responsibility structures 24 24 MODULE 1.0: Worksite Safety Inspection DETAILS or  REQUIREMENTS COMMENTS On Site Operation(s) - involving medium/large sized tree(s), 16m in height, to be observed as active worksite(s) 1.1 a) Initial assessment (applicant business, Yr.1 of yr cycle) – aerial tree work, e.g sectional felling / take-down / dismantle, OR large branch removal etc incorporating rigging operations to be presented (+ one other example of aerial tree work for larger businesses.) b) Interim reassessment (new business, Yr.3 of yr cycle) – tree work operations, aerial or ground based, to be presented c) Full reassessment (existing business, Yr.1 of ‘next’ yr cycle) – as initial assessment a) above incorporating rigging operations d) Interim reassessment (existing business, Yr.3 of ‘next’ yr cycle) – tree work operations, aerial or ground based NB Failure of this aspect of the standard will result in an overall unsuccessful assessment / reassessment outcome 1.1.1 Paperwork: Job sheet/work specification Risk assessment, site specific Method statement (MS, should be presented) CoSHH assessments Emergency contingencies (inc aerial rescue) Wildlife/EPS impact assessments Biosecurity considerations / arrangements ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed All relevant, comprehensive and correctly used Evidence of staff site briefing of risk assessments /MS/CoSHH assessments through signatures and reviewed daily on multi day sites A clear ‘emergency aerial rescue’ plan is in place with nominated responsible persons European Protected Species (EPS), in particular bats and nesting birds etc fully considered To ensure any suitable biosecurity risk assessment and arrangements are in place to avoid the spread of pests & diseases Page of 50 Section Module 1.0 – Worksite Safety Inspection 1.1 On Site Operation Page 2.3.2 Guides 2.3.3 Books 2.3.4 ‘Arb Mags’ etc Usually contained within ‘vehicle packs’ to demonstrate staff on site have adequate information/guidance available to operate safely and for reference if unsure or in event of emergency Other forms, as necessary, to be available for eventualities which may occur Biosecurity guidance / information usually issued by the FC, DEFRA / FERA or Arbor Assoc 1.1.2 Information and guidance: Generic risk assessments AFAG/FISA leaflets/HSE info and booklets Hospital A&E lists and emergency contacts Guide to Good Climbing Practice Accident/incident/‘near miss’ forms Biosecurity guidance / information 1.1.3 On site personnel suitably proficient / operationally skilled for tasks undertaken (as observed) As observed during on site working demonstrating good, efficient and safe working practices 1.1.4 PPE correct (boots, trousers, gloves, helmets, eye/ear protection, hi-viz, personal first aid kits etc.) As detailed in AFAG / FISA leaflets and HSE INDG’s etc and being used correctly (PFA kit, ‘blood-stopper’ / tourniquet / blood clot compound etc as appropriate) 1.1.5 First Aid Provision to be ‘suitable and sufficient' and industry specific (EFAW +F / +A etc.) Both crew and individual FA kits required and clean water Ensure at least two current, trained first aiders (emergency 1-day course) on any site and ideally the training is “industry / arborist / tree surgery specific.” LARGE / VERY LARGE businesses should also have people 3-day trained (FAW) or retained 1.1.6 Fire-fighting equipment secured, suitable and accessible, as applicable In terms of type/size of extinguishers, as dictated by fire risk assessment process, and evidence of servicing/checking by a competent person 1.1.7 Tools and equipment, including chainsaws and climbing / rigging kit, comply with AFAG / FISA guidelines etc These will be checked on site by the assessors for safety features, efficient operation and evidencing pre-use checks have been effective ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed 13 13 13 Page of 50 ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page of 50 1.1.8 Organisation: General arrangement of worksite is appropriate, safe and effective (inc any necessary liaisons with, and coordination of, works affecting others / contractors) Signing, lighting and guarding effective and conforms to industry standards Roles on site clearly understood Effective communication Good manual handling techniques employed Arisings handled/converted appropriately Aerial rescue provision planned, equipment available and personnel competent Fuelling point and spill control arrangements Welfare arrangements identified, available and staff informed Biosecurity control measures and arrangements / cleaning of workwear / disinfection of tools, equipment, vehicles, machinery in place (where applicable) The assessors will expect to observe a well arranged worksite operating safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption possible to surroundings and with no adverse impacts on others / contractors Pedestrians in particular and traffic must be safe and well managed at the site Staff handling timber sections will employ safe manual handling techniques with mechanical aids as necessary Aerial rescue will be fully planned and ‘ready to go!’ Fuelling, and storage, point carefully selected with ‘drip facility’ in place Welfare arrangements available, inc toilet facilities and hand cleansing Use of appropriate biosecurity control measures to avoid transmission of serious P&Ds, including cleaning and disinfecting tools with proprietary products etc as appropriate Companies should consider the need for a basic biosecurity kit available during work activities 1.1.9 MEWPs (where applicable, if tree is climbed see section 1.1.10) Appropriate selection of MEWP for job in hand Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 403 and Guide to Use of MEWPs in Arb (GUMA)) Competent, safe and proficient techniques to be observed The assessors, where deemed necessary through WAH ‘risk assessment’ (or where used in preference to climbing), will expect to see safe and efficient operations of the MEWP demonstrated in line with GUMA 1.1.10 Climbing / work positioning (where applicable, if using MEWP see section 1.1.9) Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 401 & 402, GGCP) Equipment appropriate, correctly marked / used Competent, safe and proficient climbing techniques to be observed The assessors will expect to see use of friction saving devices, where pruning is demonstrated as a secondary operation (where the MEWP has been used for the sectional dismantle) and modern climbing techniques ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page of 50 1.1.8 Organisation: General arrangement of worksite is appropriate, safe and effective (inc any necessary liaisons with, and coordination of, works affecting others / contractors) Signing, lighting and guarding effective and conforms to industry standards Roles on site clearly understood Effective communication Good manual handling techniques employed Arisings handled/converted appropriately Aerial rescue provision planned, equipment available and personnel competent Fuelling point and spill control arrangements Welfare arrangements identified, available and staff informed Biosecurity control measures and arrangements / cleaning of workwear / disinfection of tools, equipment, vehicles, machinery in place (where applicable) The assessors will expect to observe a well arranged worksite operating safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption possible to surroundings and with no adverse impacts on others / contractors Pedestrians in particular and traffic must be safe and well managed at the site Staff handling timber sections will employ safe manual handling techniques with mechanical aids as necessary Aerial rescue will be fully planned and ‘ready to go!’ Fuelling, and storage, point carefully selected with ‘drip facility’ in place Welfare arrangements available, inc toilet facilities and hand cleansing Use of appropriate biosecurity control measures to avoid transmission of serious P&Ds, including cleaning and disinfecting tools with proprietary products etc as appropriate Companies should consider the need for a basic biosecurity kit available during work activities 1.1.9 MEWPs (where applicable, if tree is climbed see section 1.1.10) Appropriate selection of MEWP for job in hand Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 403 and Guide to Use of MEWPs in Arb (GUMA)) Competent, safe and proficient techniques to be observed The assessors, where deemed necessary through WAH ‘risk assessment’ (or where used in preference to climbing), will expect to see safe and efficient operations of the MEWP demonstrated in line with GUMA 1.1.10 Climbing / work positioning (where applicable, if using MEWP see section 1.1.9) Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 401 & 402, GGCP) Equipment appropriate, correctly marked / used Competent, safe and proficient climbing techniques to be observed The assessors will expect to see use of friction saving devices, where pruning is demonstrated as a secondary operation (where the MEWP has been used for the sectional dismantle) and modern climbing techniques ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page of 50 1.1.8 Organisation: General arrangement of worksite is appropriate, safe and effective (inc any necessary liaisons with, and coordination of, works affecting others / contractors) Signing, lighting and guarding effective and conforms to industry standards Roles on site clearly understood Effective communication Good manual handling techniques employed Arisings handled/converted appropriately Aerial rescue provision planned, equipment available and personnel competent Fuelling point and spill control arrangements Welfare arrangements identified, available and staff informed Biosecurity control measures and arrangements / cleaning of workwear / disinfection of tools, equipment, vehicles, machinery in place (where applicable) The assessors will expect to observe a well arranged worksite operating safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption possible to surroundings and with no adverse impacts on others / contractors Pedestrians in particular and traffic must be safe and well managed at the site Staff handling timber sections will employ safe manual handling techniques with mechanical aids as necessary Aerial rescue will be fully planned and ‘ready to go!’ Fuelling, and storage, point carefully selected with ‘drip facility’ in place Welfare arrangements available, inc toilet facilities and hand cleansing Use of appropriate biosecurity control measures to avoid transmission of serious P&Ds, including cleaning and disinfecting tools with proprietary products etc as appropriate Companies should consider the need for a basic biosecurity kit available during work activities 1.1.9 MEWPs (where applicable, if tree is climbed see section 1.1.10) Appropriate selection of MEWP for job in hand Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 403 and Guide to Use of MEWPs in Arb (GUMA)) Competent, safe and proficient techniques to be observed The assessors, where deemed necessary through WAH ‘risk assessment’ (or where used in preference to climbing), will expect to see safe and efficient operations of the MEWP demonstrated in line with GUMA 1.1.10 Climbing / work positioning (where applicable, if using MEWP see section 1.1.9) Conforms to industry good practice (WAH Regs., LOLER Regs., AFAG 401 & 402, GGCP) Equipment appropriate, correctly marked / used Competent, safe and proficient climbing techniques to be observed The assessors will expect to see use of friction saving devices, where pruning is demonstrated as a secondary operation (where the MEWP has been used for the sectional dismantle) and modern climbing techniques ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 10 of 50 DETAILS or  REQUIREMENTS 4.1 Health and Safety Management (Appropriate to size of business, complexity of activities and industry sector serviced.) 4.1.1 Health and Safety ‘competent’ person 4.1.2 4.1.3 Health and Safety Poster (a statutory notice), current version, displayed and filled in OR H&S law leaflet / pocket card supplied http://www.hse.gov.uk/contact/faqs/lawposter.htm Fire Procedures/Signs displayed 4.1.4 Employee Consultation effective 4.1.5 Policy Structure and validated - (i) General Statement, (ii) Organisation and (iii) Arrangements Signed and dated by MD / Proprietor, including review date Displayed on staff notice board Roles and responsibilities of relevant staff 4.1.6 Health and Safety Arrangements (see below a-m) 4.1.6a COMMENTS (BASIC COMPLIANCE) Defined role, who performs it, if external advisor is there a formal contract in place Can demonstrate a good understanding of H&S management Empty fields filled in and clear to all employees, placed appropriately, more than one may be required OR signatures/dates obtained for leaflets / pocket cards if sole means of informing Fire Risk Assessment must be undertaken by a ‘competent’ person for all business premises Details of what to in event of discovering a fire and where assembly point is Fire extinguisher maintenance and checks A system of effective two-way consultation demonstrated and to be documented and minuted Clear structural composition as detailed in H & S package for contractors referring to ‘Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974’ as the primary legislation and ‘Management Regs 1999’, stating also how implementation of the policy will be managed Contractors must demonstrate compliance with the company policy at all levels Can be owner/manager but needs some level of knowledge of H & S, ideally IOSH Managing Safely Statutory poster completed and displayed OR pocket cards issued if no work place To ensure the company has appropriate and adequate H & S arrangements documented to achieve compliance Individual references to these sections where applicable, i.e ‘how will the company comply with the requirements of the ‘Work at Height Regs.’, and how the policy will be monitored and reviewed Risk Assessment: Generic Risk Assessments cover range of work undertaken RA process in place which must be understood, ‘suitable and sufficient,’ logical and defendable If generics used must cover typical range of work Basic level document as above considering the most relevant regulations and issues, including written evidence NB: The focus is on observing the outcomes rather than very detailed arrangements here Basic level, but effective, documentation required to be produced See AA website for guidance and templates ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Basic level FRA for workshop and stores etc (see www.communities.gov.uk or local fire and rescue website) as applicable Suitable fire extinguishers and signage to be available/in place Ideally, periodic (quarterly?), documented H & S specific meetings but general open lines of communication available to staff Basic level H & S Policy required (acknowledged ‘over and above’ legislation BUT clients, i.e Local Authority, often require this.) AA framework document on website will suffice for the purpose Policy to be signed and dated with formal review date included Page 36 of 50 Generic RA refer to industry best practice and promote suitable controls Site specific assessments cover daily operations Employees are trained in use System regularly reviewed and revised if needed Method Statements (MSs): Appropriate in structure and layout Content adequate and usable Details adequate and appropriate emergency procedures Co-operating with others and co-ordinating your work with that of other contractors Up to date and suitable Evidence of staff site briefing through signatures and reviewed daily on multi day sites Evidence of staff training through minuted staff consultation Evidence of regular review Derived from the risk assessment process Production of generic Method Statement for complex/high risk operations to establish a safe system of work Detailing all relevant information including site, personnel, vehicles, operations, supervision, duration, emergency procedures etc You should be able to illustrate how co-operation and co-ordination of your work is achieved in practice, and how you involve the workforce in drawing up MSs/safe systems of work deemed ‘suitable and sufficient’ for the small business approach to RA& MS REMEMBER site risk assessment is not an exercise in form filling but a very important process involving spotting hazards and avoiding, or controlling, them effectively Method Statement are deemed necessary only for complex operations and should detail the critical stages of the task 4.1.6b Working at Height Key roles / responsibilities / personnel identified Risk assessment must take account of the factors considered to determine the most appropriate means of access i.e advanced work planning by a ‘competent person.’ Suitable work equipment is selected and used correctly (inc MEWPs where appropriate) Emergency procedures are managed and adequate arrangements are in place inc an aerial rescue plan ALL above aspects are referenced in the industry code of practice document for arboriculture (ICoP.) Work at height is potentially high risk and must be planned (including identification of key roles, e.g responsible person / competent person and a clearly hierarchical approach, i.e work from ground, work from MEWP, work from rope and harness), organised and carried out by competent persons Where tree climbing is undertaken it must accord with industry best practice i.e AFAG 401 and 402 and Guide to Good Climbing Practice Emergency procedures must be specific to the particular site and method of access employed They must be planned and available for immediate implementation if required These important regulations must be understood, at least in principle, and you must not make a presumption of tree climbing ahead of other, generally deemed safer, access methods, if at all You must be able to demonstrate, on a jobby-job basis, how you have arrived at the access method employed and have adequate justification detailed where tree climbing is undertaken Generally the site risk assessment will be used for this purpose You will be expected to have a copy of the ICoP document 4.1.6c Provision and Use Work Equipment Pre-use/daily operator checks for all qualifying equipment are carried out effectively System of fault recording is in place Qualifying equipment includes more complex items such as chippers, grinders and vehicles Evidence of checks required Chainsaws are considered to be less complex and This is a key area og H&S regulation where the focus is on the outcome of machinery and equipment suitability, maintenance and performance, including appropriate safety ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 37 of 50 Records of inspection and servicing of all qualifying equipment are available Provision of adequate information, instruction and training by employers (see section 3.6) subject to daily pre-use checks Hence maintenance (repair/replace)/periodic checks should be carried out and recorded by management Service records in the form of copy invoices for externally sourced work or service sheet detailing in-house maintenance features present and functional Associated paperwork / records will be low key but present 4.1.6d Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Pre-use/daily checks undertaken Interim checks, often weekly, of items subject to high levels of wear and tear undertaken and suitably recorded Competent and qualified person inspections undertaken and suitable Out of Service equipment dealt with effectively Kit will be examined on site to ensure that it meets requirements as far as reasonable practicable Evidence of adequate inspection records as recommended by LOLER ACOP HSE website Evidence of historical and current competent person checks System for ensuring redundant equipment cannot be brought back into service As above but with supporting records as applicable Ensure there is a process on periodic / weekly checks to ensure equipment is operational and ‘safe to use.’ 4.1.6e Control of Substances Hazardous to Health and Control of Asbestos Regs Assessments Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s) available Pesticide Records Health monitoring (HM) Surplus disposal (SD) Asbestos arrangements (generally unlikely to be encountered but a very significant hazard/health risk if inhaled in dust/fibres form, hence a specific risk assessment should be produced.) A list of qualifying substances to be drawn up, assessed and MSDS’s (often on internet) obtained Copies of assessments to be kept at point of use, storage and in office (copies of relevant sections included in vehicle packs) Harmful substances produced, i.e tree sap, wood dust, leaf hairs, should also be risk assessed In accordance with Green Code i.e suitable stock record and application records and access to BASIS qualified persons where appropriate HM and SD if necessary and as appropriate The CoSHH regs require the employer, regardless of business size, to carry out a formal risk assessment here This will require a CoSHH RA template and the relevant MSDS, where applicable See AA website for further information and templates As a minimum on site a copy of the relevant MSDSs detailing what the product is and what to in the event of accidental spillage and first aid measures 4.1.6f Manual Handling Operations Evidence of manual handling training being undertaken with an understanding of MH assmts Often ‘further’ development issues after initial approval provided an adequate understanding is in place 4.1.6g First Aid Musculo-skeletal disorders (MSDs) are a common cause for work place absence Good instruction and supervision are required to be evidenced to ensure employers are meeting their duties The contractor needs to have ‘appropriate and ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed As above Page 38 of 50 Evidence of a first aid assessment being considered Evidence of adequate and relevant, i.e industry specific, first aid provision in place adequate’ arrangements for First Aid (FA) provision at the work place 4.1.6h Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences and Accident / Incident Management A good awareness of RIDDOR requirements/reporting AND accident recording - see Appendix 1.0 4.1.6i Personal Protective Equipment PPE requirements determined by RA process Staff provided with necessary PPE Records of issuing, checking and maintaining Knowledge of the requirements of AIRR including investigation and principles of prevention Knowledge of the RIDDOR regulations and reportable incidents will be required Knowledge of how to notify and how to report PPE provided, relevant and compliant with industry good practice, i.e AFAG / FISAs PPE register detailing who has received what and signed to acknowledge receipt 4.1.6j Fire Safety Order (FSO) and Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Fire Risk Assessment (FRA), for all premises/offices, to be undertaken and documented DSEAR as applic 4.1.6k 4.1.6l 4.1.6m 4.1.7 As above As above As above Control of Vibration in the Workplace - VIBRATION Identify vibrating power tools/machinery and magnitudes Be aware of typical vibration exposure times / have risk assessment and undertake Health Surveillance (HS) for all staff Control of Noise in the Workplace - NOISE Identify noisy (above 80 db) power tools/machinery and be aware of noise exposure times etc Adequate risk assessment in place and HS for all staff The FSO (2005) places the responsibility for undertaking fire risk assessments with the premises owner/occupier DSEAR assessment is mainly applicable where petrol vapours build up to create an explosive atmosphere HAVS is well known in the industry The 2005 Regs place an onus upon employers to inform employees about HAVS and control the exposure to limit the risk of permanent damage and undertake health surveillance where appropriate Excessive noise is well known in the industry The 2005 Regs place an onus upon employers to inform employees about noise and control the exposure to limit the risk of permanent damage and undertake health surveillance of staff Welfare Arrangements; To include provision of / access to clean, working toilet facilities and handwash facilities with hot water etc Sub-contractors*/consultants (if applicable) To have procedures in place to ensure appointment of competent sub-contractors/consultants To have arrangements in place to monitor subcontractor performance The Workplace Health, Safety & Welfare Regs place a duty on employers to make adequate provision for welfare facilities (see across.) Sub-contractors* are engaged on a clear, written, contractual basis Evidence showing how you ensure sub-contractors are competent including examples of assessments you have carried out Stating PL insurance levels, PPE provision, details As above ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed As above As above Page 39 of 50 of service, evidence of training and competence Evidence showing your methodology for undertaking sub-contractor performance assessments *The ArbAC scheme defines a sub-contractor as a separate business entity providing a bespoke operation/service (e.g timber haulage, stump-grinding) that is outside of the mandatory requirements of the ArbAC Standard ALL mandatory tree work operations must be undertaken by employees of the company using company equipment (however sub-contract "labour only" is acceptable) The ArbAC scheme recognises that during busy times contractors may need to utilise arboricultural sub-contractors to undertake works but the scheme does not permit the majority of works to be undertaken by / contracted out as an integral part of ArbAC’s business model ArbAC status cannot be conferred or inferred in part or in its entirety onto a sub-contractor in carrying out an ArbAC’s operations 4.1.8 An auditable system exists to monitor staff compliance with Health and Safety (inc sub-contractors) Evidence of recorded periodic checks (e.g use of AFAG / FISA leaflets where appropriate) 4.1.9 An auditable system exists to monitor work quality and standards (inc sub-contractors) 4.1.10 Review and revision of H & S management procedures Evidence of recorded periodic checks covering specification conformance, pruning cuts, tidy and finished site etc A fundamental requirement of all H & S management procedures Understanding of why this is necessary and evidence of how the process works within the company How the H & S performance of the company can be assessed to check their effectiveness, i.e sickness records, accident book entries and RIDDOR reports 4.2 Health and Safety Communications and Controls (applicable only to larger contractors, i.e 10-19 or above employees and multi-office businesses) 4.2.1 Clear and effective lines of communication and consultation 4.2.2 Clear lines of command / responsibility 4.3 Training and Competence 4.3.1 Training and information To have in place and implement, adequate and effective training arrangements for employees To have in place an effective system for assessing and ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Evidence of how the senior management ensure communications at all levels and as a two-way process Dedicated persons responsible to ensure communications links are effective and compliance is achieved at all levels To ensure employees have the necessary skills and understanding to undertake their tasks safely and effectively Production of a comprehensive skills/training matrix is useful to manage and Page 40 of 50 implementing update and refresher training To have in place adequate health and safety information and guidance (see Appendix 2.0) administer deficiencies and necessary updates combined with a system of appraisal/monitoring 4.3.2 Qualifications / certifications and experience To ensure employees have the necessary qualifications to undertake their tasks To ensure employees have the necessary and relevant experience To ensure that, combined with training and information, employees have the necessary ‘competence’ to safely and effectively undertake their tasks unless under controlled, competent supervision To include NPTC / Lantra / National Award ‘certificates of competence’ /’licence to practice’ or evidence of suitable auditable training (see FISA 805 Training&Certification.) 4.3.3 Training records for employees and sub-contractors inc: Induction training/H & S awareness training Certificates of Competence – chainsaw/ MEWPs/aerial work/pesticide application Evidence of auditable training for Chippers/Stump Grinders, i.e NPTC or Lantra Awards ITA Driving licences First Aid (ideally industry specific ‘+F’) / Fire Fighting Signing Lighting and Guarding Arb competence for level / other training (CPD) Insurance details (sub-contractors) CSCS cards (where appropriate) Bat/wildlife awareness training IOSH ‘Working safely’ (1 day) e.g Evidence of ‘in-house’ / ‘on the job’ training Biosecurity and P&D awareness 4.3.4 A system exists for assessing training needs of staff (including refresher training for all disciplines) New employees will be expected to be inducted to the company, often with use of a simple checklist Relevant competence certificates etc and training will be required as detailed in FISA 805 Driving licences to be copied periodically – at least annually Personnel combinations to ensure at least two trained first aiders (emergency day) on any site and ideally someone within the company with First Aid at Work Signing Lighting & Guarding required to cover roadside tree works which affect the highway Adequate training in the use of fire extinguishers Records of any further relevant training, in particular bat awareness The Forestry Commission E-learning package provides free training on the subject of Tree Pest and Disease and Biosecurity see: https://www.forestryelearning.org.uk/login/index.p hp Training matrix or similar detailing qualifications etc for all staff available to the company detailing areas for additional/refresher/update training as required ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 41 of 50 4.4 Environmental 4.4.1 Environmental Policy Produce a written policy identifying those operations undertaken by the company that may create pollution risks and/or waste generation and state what controls/prevention are in place to minimise any risk identified Identify and document those operations undertaken by the company which may have an adverse effect on the environment and state the controls imposed DETAILS 4.5 Stores / Workshop 4.5.1 Secure and generally tidy and safe to work in 4.5.2 Incorporating the Environmental Protection Act and Pollution Prevention & Control Act and any associated regulations, in terms of pollution control and waste management This will consider issues including fuel and oil run offs causing ground and watercourse contamination Oil and fuels storage and controls Pesticides also Also selection of bio-degradable oils over mineral oils where appropriate or  Appropriate signage ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed REQUIREMENTS COMMENTS No slip, trip, fall hazards, no exposed lighting strips/bulbs, no exposed wiring etc etc Relevant to contents of stores/containers etc and Page 42 of 50 Externally (Explosive, No Smoking etc) Internally (electric shock, eye/ear protection, first aid) operations conducted with signs being compliant with H&S (Safety Signs and Signals) Regs etc 4.5.3 Appropriate illumination/electricity supply 4.5.4 Complies with Oil Storage Regs if applicable 4.5.5 Has spill control Required for staff welfare but must not create ignition risk In remote areas, consider solar/battery lights Single containers over 200 litres to be bunded Bulk tanks to be bunded including delivery pipes Suitable products – not sawdust, to prevent fouling of drains and ground water etc 4.5.6 Suitable wall mounted first aid kit 4.5.7 Suitable Fire Risk Assessment, Procedure and Equipment (and DSEAR assessment if applicable) 4.5.8 Suitable staff welfare – cleaning/toilets etc 4.5.9 Pesticide/herbicide storage and records 4.5.10 COSHH information / controls / PPE etc 4.5.11 Equipment has appropriate guards/signs 4.5.12 Equipment is serviceable and tested if necessary 4.5.13 Suitable biosecurity kit DETAILS 4.6 Yard 4.6.1 Vehicle movements, control of pedestrians, adequate illumination and equipment adequate 4.6.2 Timber arisings safe, secure and signed as To be well stocked with ‘in date’ eye wash and contents/materials etc Re-stocking procedures Carry out and record a fire risk assessment to identify and eliminate/reduce risk of fire/explosion or  ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed To comply with ‘Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regs 1992 (see HSE INDG 244) In line with current legislative requirements for adequate storage and stock lists etc To be available to staff at the point of i) usage, i.e in the vehicles and ii) storage, e.g in the stores i.e ‘eye protection’, ‘ear protection’ and protection guards in situ and in good working order Including portable electrical equipment and pressure vessels (compressors) Appropriate and sufficient items available for routine biosecurity control measures, cleaning and disinfection REQUIREMENTS COMMENTS Generally safe and tidy yard with adequate space for vehicle manoeuvres at peak times i.e morning and night, in particular in winter = possible risk assessment required Cordwood stored safely and appropriately, i.e Page 43 of 50 appropriate 4.6.3 Woodchip storage safe, secure and within EA guidelines etc generally not exceeding 1.8m high unless special measures employed 10m from watercourse, not in groundwater protection area, not more than 500 tonnes in any day period APPENDIX 1.0 – Accident Reporting and Accident Investigation (extract from CHAS Appdx.) We expect you to have satisfactory arrangements for recording, reporting and investigating accidents and incidents Your arrangements should clearly define your reporting procedure for all RIDDOR reportable events Provide evidence of your arrangements and details of two recent accidents or incidents; how they were investigated and actions taken to prevent recurrence Please ensure records containing personal details are managed / stored according to data protection requirements Please provide figures for any accidents/incidents in the last years (‘0 entries’ across the board will not normally be accepted.) ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 44 of 50 Year Ending FATAL Eg 2012 SPECIFIED INJURY or OVER DAYS NON-REPORTABLE DANGEROUS OCCURENCES REPORTABLE ILLHEALTH NEAR MISSES 2015 2016 2017 Accompanying guidance states: We expect you to have robust arrangements for reporting and investigating accidents and incidents Please submit your procedure for ensuring that any accidents or near misses are recorded, investigated and reported to the relevant enforcing authority Assessors may be dubious if there have been no reported accidents or incidents for three years We will not dispute this but the assessor will consider the nature and size of your company but where there is a zero return, we will seek assurance you have investigated under-reporting as a possible reason We expect you to investigate appropriately any accident to prevent a recurrence Consequently in addition to completing your accident statistics on the application form please support this with details regarding accidents where recorded, how these were investigated and the conclusions of that investigation including any action taken to prevent a recurrence The above will form the basis of the ArbAC assessment in demonstrating compliance with RIDDOR and competent accident/incident management and procedures ArbACs will be expected to present relevant information in the above table format Appendix Two: Sources of Information and Guidance Organisation Web address Arboricultural Association City & Guilds NPTC Confederation of Forest Industries (ConFor) Direct Gov Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency Forest Research Forestry Commission www.trees.org.uk www.nptc.org.uk www.confor.org.uk www.gov.uk www.dvla.gov.uk www.forestresearch.gov.uk www.forestry.gov.uk ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 45 of 50 Forestry Contracting Association Forestry Industry Safety Accord Freight Transport Association Health and Safety Executive HSE “Treework” HSE Books Institute of Chartered Foresters International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Lantra Lantra Awards Legislation Logistics in Forestry Transport Road Haulage Association United Kingdom Forest Products Association www.fcauk.com www.ukfisa.com www.fta.co.uk www.hse.gov.uk www.hse.gov.uk/treework www.books.hse.gov.uk www.charteredforesters.org www.isa-arbor.com www.lantra.co.uk www.lantra-awards.co.uk www.legislation.gov.uk www.logisticsinforestrytransport.co.uk www.rha.net www.ukfpa.co.uk Ref 402/2001 AA Title Safe Working Methods with Top-handled Chainsaws A Guide to Good Tree Climbing Practice Ref GS6 HSE AA AA A Guide to the Use of MEWPs in Arboriculture Industry Code of Practice for Arboriculture: Tree Work at Height (2015) Title Tree Climbing Operations Aerial Tree Rescue Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) for Tree Work Mobile Stump Grinders Storing Pesticides Power-fed Mobile Wood Chippers – Operator Safety at Infeed Chutes Power Take-offs and Power Take-off Drive Shafts HSE PM29 HSE SR1 Title Avoiding Danger from Overhead Powerlines Determination of Rope Access and Work Positioning Techniques in Arboriculture Electrical Risks from Steam/Water Pressure Cleaners Cleaning and Disinfection Using a Low Pressure Washer Ref HSG47 HSL/2003/18 INDG136 INDG143 INDG163 INDG173 Title Avoiding Danger from Underground Services Karabiner Safety in the Arboriculture Industry A Brief Guide to COSHH Getting to Grips with Manual Handling Risk Assessment Office-wise INDG175 Control the Risks from Hand-Arm Vibration–Guidance for Ref AFAG401 AFAG402 AFAG403 AFAG606 AIS16 AIS38 AS24 ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 46 of 50 INDG185 INDG214 INDG229 Using Work Equipment Safely FISA103 Recommendations for Tree Work Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction Recommendations Winching Operations in Forestry – Tree Takedown and Vehicle Debogging Planting Employers on Control of Vibration at Work Regulations Using Tractors Safely First Aid at Work: Your Questions Answered INDG236 FISA104 FISA202 FISA203 FISA301 FISA302 FISA303 Fencing Application of Pesticides by Hand-held Equipment Clearing Saw Using Petrol Driven Chainsaws Basic Chainsaw Felling and Manual Takedown Snedding INDG259 INDG290 INDG296 INDG317 INDG36 INDG362 FISA304 FISA306 FISA307 Chainsaw Cross Cutting and Manual Stacking Chainsaw Clearance of Windblow Chainsaw Felling of Large Trees INDG363 INDG370 INDG401 Maintaining Portable Electric Equipment in Low-risk Environments Health and Safety Made Simple Lifting Equipment at Work – A Brief Guide Hand-Arm Vibration – Advice for Employees Chainsaws at Work Working with VDUs Noise at Work – Guidance for Employers on Control of Noise at Work Regs Protect Your Hearing or Lose It (employees’ leaflet) Fire and Explosion Work at Height Regulations 2005 – A Brief Guide for Employers BS3998 BS5837 FC ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 47 of 50 Ref FISA308 Title Top-handled Chainsaws Ref INDG402 FISA310 FISA501 FISA502 FISA503 FISA504 FISA601 Use of Winches in Directional Felling and Takedown Tractor Units in Tree Work Extraction by Skidder Extraction by Forwarder Extraction by Cable Crane Mobile Circular Saw Bench INDG68 INDG69 INDG73 INDG90 MISC614 RR668 FISA602 FISA603 FISA607 FISA701 FISA702 FISA703 FISA704 FISA705 FISA802 FISA803 FISA804 FISA805 Mobile Peeling Machine Mechanical Roadside Processing Firewood Processors ATV Quad Bikes All-terrain Vehicles De-bogging and Recovery of Forest Machines Excavators in Tree Work Steep Slope Working in Forestry Emergency Planning Fire Fighting Electricity at Work: Forestry and Arboriculture Training and Certification Title Safe Use of Ladders and Step Ladders – An Employer’s Guide You Could be in for a Shock Violence at Work: A Guide for Employers Working Alone Ergonomics and Human Factors at Work Preventing Falls from Boom-type MEWPs Evaluation of Current Rigging and Dismantling Practices Used in Arboriculture Please note this is not an exhaustive list APPENDIX 3.0 Assessment / Reassessment Outcomes ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 48 of 50 New applicant businesses: The possible outcomes and further steps following initial assessment (cost are indicative, see website for current charges.) Assessment outcome Entitlements FULL APPROVAL Manager’s identification card(s), sample vehicle livery, Directory entry on website and an electronic copy of the ArbAC logo for marketing purposes Entitlement lasts for years (assuming re-approval at any reassessment / revisit / audits after initial assessment) ArbAC status is awarded as a result of full compliance with the Standard and no further action is required Timescales for rectification of areas standard not met N/A Cost for further review / assessment if necessary (+VAT) N/A Additionally access to TrustMark and, indirectly, other SSiP registered Safety Schemes PENDING APPROVAL (a) minor rectification(s) (b) major rectification(s) (c) revisit (partial criteria) Open dialogue with ArbAC scheme manager / appointed Lead Assessor and AA website resource (a) / (b) £90 - £250 (b) Submission – Major rectification(s) 3-6 months, OR ArbAC status is deferred because of non-compliance until the issues are rectified by either submission of documents or by a further assessment visit If a further assessment visit is required it’s normally restricted to the assessment of areas of the Standard deemed not compliant NON-APPROVAL ArbAC status is declined because of significant failings A further full assessment visit will be required covering the full Standard (a) Submission – minor rectification(s) upto months, OR Open dialogue with ArbAC scheme manager and AA website resource (c) Revisit – partial criteria within months (c) £520 per assessor per day will apply N/A (advisory may be given) Full assessment fee at re-application Existing ArbACs: The possible outcomes and further steps following reassessment (cost are indicative, see website for current charges.) ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed Page 49 of 50 Reassessment outcome Entitlements FULL RE-APPROVAL Manager’s identification card(s), sample vehicle ArbAC status is maintained as a result of full livery, Directory entry on ‘Find a Tree Surgeon’ compliance with the Standards section of AA website, an electronic copy of the ArbAC logo for marketing purposes Entitlement lasts for years (assuming approval at any subsequent reassessment / revisit / audit etc.) 2.PROVISIONAL RE-APPROVAL ArbAC status is maintained until current accreditation expiry whilst issues of noncompliance are rectified Failure to demonstrate that these issues have been rectified by that date will result in entry to the online directory being suspended and, after the maximum time period stated across, ArbAC status being withdrawn ArbAC status will only be reinstated when compliance with the Standard is demonstrated, either as a result of submission of evidence relating to non-compliant criteria or by a full reassessment, whichever is determined appropriate by the scheme manager Timescales Cost (+VAT) N/A N/A Manager’s identification card(s), sample vehicle (a) Submission livery, Directory entry on ‘Find a Tree Surgeon’ minor rectification(s) section of AA website and an electronic copy of the Max month from ArbAC logo for marketing purposes Accreditation accreditation expiry lasts until expiry as per compliance certificate (b)Submission – major rectification(s) Max months from accreditation expiry (c) Revisit – partial criteria Max months from accreditation expiry NON-RE-APPROVAL Open dialogue with ArbAC scheme N/A (advisory may be ArbAC status is withdrawn because of major manager/appointed Lead assessor and AA website given non-compliance ArbAC status will only be resource reinstated when compliance with the Standard is demonstrated, either as a result of submission of evidence relating to non-compliant criteria or by a full reassessment, whichever is determined appropriate by the scheme manager ArbAC Standard ‘fewer than employees’ – 2018 – Version 8.0 – PS Not controlled when printed (a) / (b) £90 - £250 (c) £520 per assessor per day will apply Full assessment fee at re-application Page 50 of 50